LYRICS BORN

As U Were

2010-10-25

Born in Tokyo and currently residing in Berkeley, Tom Shimura (a.k.a. Lyrics Born) is an MC, radio DJ, producer and musician. He's been on the music scene for quite a while, collaborating with the likes of Blackilicious, Poets of Rhythm, Stereo MC's, and KRS-One, among others. He was also half of the duo Latryx, with Lateef the Truthspeaker; but enough of his history. "As U Were" is essentially a hip hop album, but it's much more. It features cool beats, occasionally amusing lyrics, and even skits. There must be a keytar in use as the album opens with the very 1980's sounding "Kontrol Phreak". Then, the album seems to progress chronologically to a more current sound. There are some notable guests here as well; including Joyo Velarde (Mrs. Shimura) on "I've Lost Myself". If you like the artists Del the Funky Homosapien or Cee-Lo (other artists Lyrics Born has collaborated with), you might like this release. Rebecca Ruth

Quick Links:

More reviews tagged #Rock

  • reviewed 03/2006

    NICOLAI DUNGER
    Here's My Song

  • reviewed 04/2008

    The Mines
    People Music

  • reviewed 04/2008

    Virginia Coalition
    Home This Year

  • reviewed 04/2008

    Jonathan Richmond
    Because Her Beauty is Raw and Wild

  • reviewed 05/2011

    BEASTIE BOYS
    Hot Sauce Committee Part Two

  • reviewed 01/2016

    Murder Party
    Murder Party! EP

Compiled by the WYCE Journalism Club

The opinions expressed in these reviews are those of the individual volunteers that submitted the article and do not necessarily reflect the views of WYCE or GRCMC; nor its staff, donors, or affiliates.